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This is the one: The NordicTrack S3000 Institutional treadmill. Nirvana. The Cadillac of treadmills. Game over. Surrender, Dorothy. Well, that’s a bit of oversell, but this is a very good machine, and you’ll find that most NordicTrack treadmill reviews have yet to find any faults or negatives worth mentioning.

The Machine

(This model has been discontinued)

On the display, you’ll find a large 8”x 30” LED console that features speed, pace, time, incline, segment time, distance, calories burned, fat calories burned, and maximum percent heart rate -- at the same time. There’s no scrolling screen; it’s all right there. It also has the 1-Touch™ Speed Control, a Workout Intensity Meter, and the machine is iFIT® compatible to vary your workouts. Other features of the NordicTrack S 3000 Institutional treadmill include:

The Buzz

First and foremost, experts say take a look at the large 5.0 CHP motor on the NordicTrack S3000 Institutional treadmill. That’s the best motor you’ll find in any treadmill at this price range, and it’s even covered by a motor warranty for as long as you own the machine. The S3000 also features a large running deck, and a Durasoft Adjustable™ Cushioning that reduces the impact on your joints up to 28%. Here is one of the strongest endorsements you’ll find among NordicTrack reviews: Runner’s World magazine said in its January 2007 issue that “This treadmill is as sturdy as they come, receiving a perfect score from testers for the stability ranking.”

Owners say the NordicTrack S3000 Institutional is a sturdy treadmill that can handle daily runs. Walkers probably don’t need this much horsepower, but the beauty of this machine is that you will likely take up light jogging once you get a feel of the cushioned deck. It’s easier on the body and the extra long 60" belt makes the deck roomy enough for even the largest users. The iFIT® workout programs can be purchased separately and will work on this model as well as other NordicTrack machines.

What We Say

The NordicTrack S3000 is very impressive. At $2999, it’s still affordable yet gives all the features and quality you’d find in a health club model at twice the price. Every feature -- from deck cushioning to noise, power, value, components and everything else -- ranks the best in the business. The NordicTrack S3000 Institutional treadmill is a “best buy” to be included on many lists, rivaling the strong Landice L7 Series treadmills that have been dominating the $2500-$3000 price range.